French Ski Resorts Open Early With Discounted Rates After Heavy Snowfall

First published: November 13, 2023 by France Today Editors

Ski resorts in the French Alps have decided to open access to the slopes early after heavy snowfall and negative temperatures create ideal skiing conditions ahead of schedule.

The powdery snow that fell over the French Alps last week has prompted a couple of resorts to open a selection of slopes early. Val Thorens, in the 3 Vallées, has announced it will welcome skiers from November 18th, a week ahead of their planned opening. These slopes include the Funitel Péclet, the Cascade chairlift and all the magic carpets in the centre of the resort which will be available from 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.

For this pre-opening week only – up to Saturday November 25, 2023 – skiers and snowboarders will be able to hit the slopes at a discounted rate of just €20 per day, with Val Thorens’ mountain operation staff working hard to prepare the entire ski area for full operation in time for the grand opening weekend on November 25th-26th.

Olivier Desaulty, the Association Les 3 Vallées’ executive director, explains, “Val Thorens is Europe’s highest ski resort at 2,300m and we’re super excited that they’re opening early, with passes at such a compelling rate. Other resorts in Les 3 Vallées system have also had decent early snow. For example, 60 to 80 cm has fallen on Mont Saulire which links Courchevel to Méribel, so it’s looking like a very positive start for winter 2023/24.”

The resort of Tignes will also be opening its doors on November 18th. For a single rate of €38, eager skiers can get access to the top of the Grande Motte cable car and return on skis to the resort (Val Claret). Two chairlifts and the Perce Neige funicular should also be open.